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Martial Arts Academies
Before you sign up at your local martial arts academy, you'll want to have brief understanding of martial arts style you are taking. There are many styles to choose from, so take the time to learn the history and teaching techniques of any martial arts school you sign up for. Some of the most popular martial arts styles include Judo, Karate and Kung Fu. Judo literally means ' the way of the yielding' and involves 'throwing' or 'serving' your opponent until they surrender. Karate is a style that maintains an emphasis on self-discipline and focuses on a series of punch/kick/block movements. Heavily based on Taoist Philosophy, Kung Fu consists of movement based on the fighting styles of animals. When you find the martial arts style for you, consult the instructors at your local academy, studio or gym to make sure it is a style appropriate for your age and fitness level.
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Learn Self-Defense
Stop worrying about walking home alone at night or fearing the bully who pushes you regularly. Taking a martial arts self-defense class is a safe and informative way to learn how to protect yourself. Martial arts stems from a series of combat practices and techniques intended to destroy an opponent. Most martial art combat systems originated in East Asian cultures, then spread to European cultures as efficient ways to train armies. Non-professional individuals now use martial arts as a form of exercise and a way to learn self-defense. Many martial arts gyms offer classes in self-defense. Self-defense classes will either offer non-contact or contact environments. In addition to teaching students to kick, punch and block, self-defense classes attempt to condition natural defense instincts that heighten spatial awareness and strengthen the entire body.
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Dojo Ettiquette
A Dojo which means "place of a way" is a training temple for students of Japanese martial arts such as karate and Aikido. Dojos are considered scared places of study and training. If you have decided to take classes at a dojo, be sure you understand the ettiquette and rules for that dojo. In general, when entering or leaving any training session, all students must bow to the Sensei's picture or the front door. Additionally, students are often asked to bow when stepping on or off the mat. Do not wear shoes on the mat. Also remove all jewelry before stepping onto the map including: earings, rings, and watches. Always be on time; if you are late wait quietly by the door for the instructor to let you in. Hygiene is important too; be certain to wash your uniform and wear it properly. Try to engage in as little conversation as possible during the class. In a dojo, students are not just taught martial arts skills, they are also taught humility, respect and decency. Be mindful of your behavior and respect those around you. Most importantly be receptive to the teachings of your instructor.
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Your First Martial Arts Class
What happens at your first martial arts class will depend on the style you have chosen to take. Most martial arts academies will ask that you purchase the proper attire which will include a uniform with shirt and pants, and possibly a colored belt indicating your skill level. The class may begin with an introduction from the instructor then move into a warm up involving stretching and small movements to get the blood flowing. Some introductory martial arts classes will start with equipment demonstrations. Many introductory classes will ask participants to commit to the techniques and style traditions through a series question and answer commands. Before taking your first class, ask the martial arts academy whether or not you can sit in on a class to observe.